by Lauren R. Tharp Rumored to have first appeared before 400 B.C., the Pug is one of the world’s oldest dog breeds. Originating in Asia, the Pug shares a similar bloodline to that of the Pekingese. People pleasers by nature, the Pug reigns as the 12th most popular dog breed in the United States (according […]
Breed Profiles
Breed Profile: Manchester Terrier
by Lauren R. Tharp A descendent of the “original” terrier (the Black and Tan Terrier!), the Manchester Terrier originated in England and was specifically bred to hunt rats! This breed is still adept at hunting small vermin and remains a favorite dog of terrier-lovers everywhere. The Manchester Terrier was officially recognized as a breed by […]
Breed Profile: Labrador Retriever
by Lauren R. Tharp The Labrador Retriever is the most popular dog in the United States. (According to AKC registration records). Once the friend of the lonely fisherman in Newfoundland, the Labrador Retriever is now a friend to everyone, around the world! Physical Traits Size & Weight: A muscular, compact-bodied dog, the Labrador Retriever […]
Breed Profile: Rhodesian Ridgeback
by Lauren R. Tharp Rhodesian Ridgebacks come from South Africa (from Rhodesia, now known as Zimbabwe). Originally bred by Boer farmers as a hunting dog, big game hunters in the late 1800s found them especially useful as a companion while hunting down lions while on horseback. Rhodesian Ridgebacks were eventually introduced to the United States […]
Breed Profile: Chihuahua
Chihuahua Profile by Lauren R. Tharp The Chihuahua: Little Dogs with Big Attitudes While Chihuahuas don’t actually have Mexican accents like they do in the movies and on television, they do originate from Mexico. Chihuahua, Mexico, to be specific (go figure?). Recognized by the AKC in 1904, Chihuahuas are estimated to be the oldest—and smallest!—breed […]